If varicose veins are left untreated for a long time, they can lead to complications such as bleeding and varicose vein ulcers. So, you should be aware of it and also understand the differences between DVT and Varicose veins.
A lot of people have an understanding that varicose veins are just a cosmetic issue. But the fact of the matter is that it can have real-life health issues, and it is more than just a cosmetic problem. Some of the issues that you may face are swelling, pain, ulcerations, and skin color change, to name a few.
You may also have to deal with blood clots as one of the complications of varicose veins. Thus, varicose veins need to be treated at the right time, or they can become severe.
So, in this guide, we will discuss complications of varicose veins so that you can become aware of the problems and thus be a lot more confident with regards to treating the condition.
Can Varicose Veins Lead to Complications that are Serious?
Varicose veins are a cosmetic issue at an initial stage. But if it is untreated for a long time, then several complications can be encountered, such as:-
- Superficial thrombophlebitis
In the varicose veins, formation of a blood clot can happen inside the varicose vein, which can lead to a condition known as superficial thrombophlebitis. The following condition is painful but not very dangerous.
- Changes in Skin
If varicose veins are not treated at the right time, then it can lead to open sores, skin discoloration, inflammation, as well as varicose vein ulcer.
- Pulmonary embolism
A blood clot that is present in DVT can travel all the way to the lungs and get stuck in the lung vein. This can indeed lead to a life-threatening condition that would need medical treatment on an immediate basis.
- Deep Vein Thrombosis
If varicose veins are present, then there is a high probability of a blood clot forming deep inside the body in a particular vein. The difference between deep vein thrombosis and varicose veins is that in DVT, a clot is formed deep inside the body, while on the other hand, varicose veins are present just under the skin surface.
Venous (Varicose) Ulcers: Causes & Treatment
A varicose vein ulcer is a kind of wound that is formed when the veins present in the legs are not able to return the blood to the heart. Due to such a condition, pressure is increased in the veins, and thus fluid leaks into the tissues that surround the veins of the legs. Ultimately, the breakdown of skin takes place. Besides this, varicose ulcers are very painful and take a lot of time to heal. Thus, it can turn out to be a major health concern for individuals with serious health conditions as well as elderly people.
Causes of Varicose Vein Ulcer
- Environmental Factor
There are certain environmental factors that can make the condition of varicose veins even worse. For example, if the skin is exposed to allergens or irritants, then it can cause inflammation of the skin, and thus it can become a lot more susceptible to ulceration. In addition, different infections can also complicate the ulcers that already exist.
- Lifestyle Factor
The chances of venous ulcers developing can be severely impacted by the different lifestyle factors. Obesity, sedentary behavior, as well as smoking does not promote proper circulation, and in due course venous pressure can be increased. Besides this, if you are consuming a diet that is low in certain nutrients, then the healing process for venous ulcers would be hindered.
- Genetic Factor
Varicose veins skin ulcers can also be developed due to genetic factors. If you have a family history of having venous disease, then you are at a higher risk of developing the same. Besides this, the blood vessels can also be affected by autoimmune conditions such as vasculitis and lupus. This can cause venous insufficiency, and at a later stage, ulcers can be formed. Also, varicose veins blood clots can also be formed due to genetic factors.
- Other Risk Factors
Some of the other factors of varicose vein ulcers are:-
# Gender
It is seen that women are more susceptible to varicose ulcers majorly due to hormonal factors.
# Age
Older adults are at a lot more risk of developing varicose veins as the elasticity of the skin gets reduced.
# Earlier issue of venous veins
If you have a previous issue of varicose veins or DVT, then there is a high chance that ulcers will develop.
Treatment of Varicose Vein Ulcer
- Non-Medical Treatment
# Exercise
If physical activity is regularly done, then circulation can be improved, and thus chances of ulcer formation can be reduced significantly.
# Changes in Diet
It is important that you consume a balanced diet which is rich in minerals and vitamins such that skin healing and health can be supported.
# Management of Weight
If a healthy weight is maintained, then pressure can be reduced on the veins.
- Medical Treatment
# Caring of Wound
Proper dressing and cleaning of the ulcer is important such that healing can be promoted and infection can be prevented.
# Compression Therapy
Compression stockings and bandages are used such that blood flow can be improved and swelling is reduced.
# Medical Intervention
Topical antibiotics need to be prescribed such that infections can be treated or prevented.
# Surgical Process
In a few cases, surgical intervention might be needed for different problems like venous reflux or varicose veins.
Bleeding & Ruptured Varicose Veins: What to Do
If you are suffering from bleeding & ruptured varicose veins, then it is recommended that you apply pressure such that bleeding can be controlled. Besides this, disinfect as well as clean the area that is wounded. Next, you need to raise the leg that is affected and use compression stockings and bandages as first aid.
On the other hand, if the bleeding doesn’t stop, then medical attention would be needed in order to stop the bleeding of varicose veins. If you notice ulcers, bleeding, or sudden swelling, contact our vascular team immediately. Based on the seriousness of the condition, proper treatment would be given such that the bleeding of varicose veins doesn’t happen.
Varicose Veins vs. Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
- Varicose veins – Easy to spot
Varicose veins appear as twisted, enlarged, and bulging veins near the skin surface, often purple or blue in color. They are painless but might cause heaviness, aching, or itching in legs especially in the case if you are standing or sitting for a long time.
- Deep Vein Thrombosis – No Visible Signs Present
Some of the symptoms of DVT include cramping, redness, pain in the legs, etc. However, the symptoms may not have any visible signs, and thus it can turn out to be dangerous if not treated at the right time.
Skin Changes: Cellulitis, Discoloration & Eczema
There are a number of side effects of varicose veins, and one of them is skin changes. Some of the changes that you may witness are:-
- Eczema
It is basically a scaly and dry rash that happens due to the immune response to the fluid that is pooled under the skin.
- Discoloration
Due to capillaries being stressed, cells of the red blood cells leak into the tissue. After this, it tends to break down, leaving a stain that is permanent in color on the ankles and lower calves.
- Cellulitis
It is a quickly spreading and serious kind of bacterial skin infection that enters the skin through dry, cracked, and eczematous skin. Further, it causes swelling, warmth, and pain. Thus, varicose veins and cellulitis can go hand in hand if proper attention is not paid.
Warning Signs That Need Urgent Medical Attention
- Swelling of the legs on a daily basis
Varicose veins can cause leg pain and swelling. But if it swells up on a daily basis, then it can be a point of worry and lead to an increase in venous pressure. Apart from this, varicose vein leg pain should not be ignored.
- Darkening of Skin around the legs
If there is a discoloration of black or brown color in the leg, then it can be a warning sign that you should not ignore. The reason is that blood might be leaking from the veins to the tissue that is surrounding it.
- Eczema that is persistent
Due to congestion of venous, chronic inflammation can take place, which can lead to itching, dry skin, irritation, and redness.
- Skin hardening
If the skin that is present around the legs is thick, tight, or firm, then it can lead to advanced changes in venous which might need urgent medical attention.
- Non-Healing Wounds
If the wounds around the legs don’t heal for a long time, then it can lead to a varicose vein ulcer. Hence, this is one of the warning signs that you need to worry about.
Frequently Asked Questions – Varicose Vein Ulcer
- Is a bleeding varicose vein a medical emergency?
Yes, a bleeding varicose vein can be a medical emergency. So, if the bleeding doesn’t stop with firm pressure, then it is recommended that you pay a visit to a hospital that is nearby. If urgent attention is not given, it can cause a lot of blood loss, and in rare instances, it can turn out to be fatal.
- Can varicose veins cause skin ulcers?
Yes, varicose veins can be one of the reasons behind skin ulcers. Varicose vein ulcers occur as a result of high pressure and bad flow of blood in the leg. So, over a course of time, it can damage the tissue and skin.
- How do I know if it’s a varicose vein or a blood clot?
Varicose veins are often bulging, visible, and twisted, whereas blood clots may not be visible on the skin. Also, varicose veins can lead to heaviness or chronic aching. On the other hand, with blood clots, you would have sudden and sharp pain.
Get Best in Class Treatment for Varicose Veins at Treatment Range Hospitals.
It is important that you are aware of the different complications of varicose veins. In this way, early diagnosis can be made, and you would be able to take effective medical treatment. So, if you are facing the issue of varicose veins, then look no further than Treatment Range Hospitals. We are backed by a team of vein specialists who can provide you with personalized treatment such that all your problems associated with varicose veins are resolved. Thus, it is recommended that you contact us right away to book a consultation.
